Maid/Matron of Honor Responsibilities

Maid of Honor and Matron of Honor have the same responsibilities. Why do they have different titles for the same thing? Traditionally a Maid of Honor is not married, where a Matron of Honor typically is married. They are both chosen the same; both are usually a best friend or close relative (i.e. sister). If you are asked to be one, you should feel privileged. Take it seriously and show that you deserve the title.

Before The Wedding

• Host a bridal shower for the bride.  This includes planning, inviting, and delivering. This is usually family appropriate. Spread the word about where the couple is registered
• Pay for wedding attire. The bridesmaids dress is your responsibility. Some bride’s also want matching shoes, which will also be your responsibility.
• Throw the bride and amazing bachelorette party for his last night not be a Mrs. This is traditionally more wild than a bridal shower and often contains more friends than family partiers.
• Go along with the bride to do dress shopping. Give opinions and be supportive.
• Help assist in any way possible with planning. A few examples are: helping find or visit possible vendor locations, help choose or make invitations, help set up wedding favors, pick up various wedding items in the couples place, and more.
• Prepare a toast. Don’t wing it. You should feel honored to be given this position in the wedding; you were chosen because the bride cares deeply for you. Show her, as well as her future husband, support and appreciation by taking the time to prepare.

During The Ceremony

• Help arrange the veil and train for the bride before you walk down the aisle and take your place before her.
• Adjust her veil or train (as discreetly as possible) for the bride if needed to ensure better photographs.
• You may be asked to hold the bride’s vows. Keep them safe.
• In some cases you may be responsible for holding the groom’s wedding ring if a ring bearer isn’t being used.
• Stand to the bride’s side. You may want to have tissues on hand for the bride, yourself, and the bridesmaids.
• Hold the bride’s bouquet for the duration of the ceremony. She will take it back before she begins her exit down the aisle as a Mrs.

During The Reception

• Help bride bustle her wedding dress.
• During the reception you will need to deliver your toast. It is ok to cry. However, try to speak loud and clear so people can understand you.
• Dance
• Usually asked to sign the marriage certificate as a witness.

After The Reception

• Help with clean up once the reception is over.
• Help the newlyweds pack the presents into their vehicle.